Fouzi Lekjaa: A Rising Political Figure in Moroccan Football
Since taking the helm of the Moroccan Royal Football Federation in 2014, Fouzi Lekjaa has emerged as a transformative figure within the realm of Moroccan football. His recent official engagement with the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) ahead of the legislative elections reflects his growing political ambitions. This move, occurring just weeks before critical elections in September, underscores Lekjaa's desire to leverage his popularity, stemming from the successes of the Moroccan national team, the Lions of the Atlas, to potentially secure a significant political role.
Fouzi Lekjaa's prominence in the media and his influence within Moroccan sports have led to speculations that he may ascend to the role of Prime Minister following the elections. With Morocco poised to host the 2030 World Cup alongside Portugal and Spain, the upcoming government is often referred to as "the World Cup government." Lekjaa currently holds no major position within PAM, yet his experience as the Minister Delegate for Budget under Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch suggests he possesses the political acumen necessary for such a position.
Transforming Moroccan Football into a Global Force
Born in 1970 in Berkane to a modest family, Lekjaa's journey in football began as the president of his hometown club, Renaissance Sportive de Berkane, from 2009 to 2019. Under his leadership, the club transformed into one of Africa's top teams, clinching the CAF Cup three times. His ascent to the presidency of the Moroccan Football Federation marked the beginning of an ambitious reform agenda aimed at elevating Morocco's status in both men's and women's football on the global stage.
Among his most notable achievements is the development of world-class football infrastructure, including the Mohammed VI complex near Rabat, which required an investment of approximately 60 million euros. His focus on youth training has yielded impressive results, with 58% of the recent U20 World Cup champions being locally trained. Furthermore, Morocco's national team has reached the quarter-finals of two consecutive World Cups, a clear indication of the progress made under Lekjaa's leadership. "We are no longer the Morocco that celebrates just qualifications; we now celebrate victories," he stated following the Lions of the Atlas' qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
In addition to his roles as president of the Morocco-2030 Foundation and the organizing committee for the 2030 World Cup, Lekjaa serves as vice-president of the African Football Confederation (CAF) and a member of FIFA's council. With his extensive influence and achievements in football, the Berkane native now has an opportunity to extend his impact beyond the pitch and into the political arena, potentially shaping the future of Moroccan sports and governance.
As reported by rfi.fr.
